Chapter 1

Image by tawatchai07 on Freepik
#Mumbai
The door of the cabin was banged open with a resounding thud, causing heads to jerk up momentarily before snapping back down, eyes fixed on the files in front of them. A pair of long, confident strides in high heels, adorned in professional black attire, made its way to the meeting room, each step echoing with authority.
Everyone’s eyes went down, heads dipping into their files, hoping to avoid the storm that had just entered the office. The tension in the air was palpable as they awaited her presence.
And there she was. Shehnaaz Gill, the epitome of power and grace, entered the conference room. Everyone held their breath, anxiously waiting for her to take her seat. The room remained in a hushed reverence, knowing that even a slight mistake could cost them their jobs.
The clients were well aware of the reputation of this young, formidable 21-year-old managing director. Shehnaaz Gill, a name synonymous with success and unyielding determination, had the power to make or break deals with a mere nod or frown. Her decision could sway the entire industry, and today, they were at her mercy.
Shehnaaz glanced through the file in front of her, her expression unreadable. “Shall we start?” she asked, her voice calm but commanding.
The clients, desperate to make a good impression, nodded enthusiastically, forcing smiles onto their faces. It was a rare privilege to get an appointment with Shehnaaz Gill, and they knew securing a deal with her would be a monumental achievement.
As the meeting progressed, Mr. Suri began to feel increasingly nervous. Shehnaaz’s face remained impassive, giving no indication of her thoughts or feelings. It was impossible to discern her stance on the matter.
The meeting concluded, and Mr. Suri, trying to maintain his composure, smiled. “Thank you for your time, Ms. Gill. We have always had a very good relationship with your father.”
Shehnaaz’s expression did not waver. “We should get back to the deal now,” she stated firmly.
Mr. Suri shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “So, what is your opinion about the deal, Ms. Gill?”
Shehnaaz finally looked up, her gaze piercing. “I need to think about it. I will get back to you by this evening.”
Mr. Suri had not expected an immediate yes, but the uncertainty in her response left him feeling uneasy. “We will be waiting for your answer,” he said, trying to sound optimistic.
Shehnaaz shook hands with him, her face still a mask of mystery, and left the conference room with determined steps, leaving the clients in awe and a bit of shock.
Back in her cabin, Shehnaaz stood near the window, gazing out at the city below. She relished the power she held, yet her thoughts often drifted back to her past, a past filled with pain and loss.
Her mind replayed the memories as if they were scenes from a movie, accompanied by a haunting melody:
“Mujhe yuhi karke… khwabon se juda… jane kaha chhupke… betha hai khuda…
Janu na me kab huvi… khud se gumshuda… kaise juyi ruh bhi… mujhse hai juda…
Kyuuuu… ye rahe… mujhse puchhe… ghar kahan hai…
Kyuuu… mujhse aake… dastak puchhe… ghar kahan hai hai…”
—
#Flashback – 14 Years Ago
A young Shehnaaz stood in the back seat of the car, her excitement bubbling over. “Papaji, dhire!” she exclaimed, her eyes wide with curiosity.
Rajender ji smiled at his daughter. “Beta, dhire hi chala raha hu.”
Shehnaaz, delighted in her new dress, asked, “Papaji, hum kaha ja rahe hai?”
Jasbeera ji, looking at her doll-like daughter, answered, “Airport ja rahe hai, beta.”
Shehnaaz, not understanding, asked again, “Kyu?”
Rajender ji’s smile widened. “Hum Delhi ja rahe hai, beta, chacha aur chachi se milne.”
Shehnaaz, still puzzled, said, “Par hum pehle to kabhi nahi gaye…”
Jasbeera ji, rolling her eyes at her daughter’s endless questions, replied, “Haan beta, isliye to ab ja rahe hai, unse milne.”
Rajender ji tried to cheer her up. “Wahan aapke sath Baljeet veerji aur Sameera di bhi hongi khelne ke liye.”
Shehnaaz’s face lit up with a smile. “Ye log kaun hai, papaji?”
Rajender ji smiled back. “Aap ke bhayya aur didi hai, beta.”
Shehnaaz, feeling the car’s speed, got scared. “Papaji, dhire chalao na…”
Jasbeera ji, sensing the speed as well, added, “Ji, woh keh rahi hai to dhire chalayiye na.”
Rajender ji, rolling his eyes, muttered, “Break par pav pad hi nahi rahe hai… 7 saal, Jasbeera ji… us sham ke baad…”
Shehnaaz piped up again, “Sham…?”
Jasbeera ji quickly tried to cover up. “Kuchh nahi beta… aap abhi so jao… baad me bhayya aur didi ke sath khelenge na aap.”
Shehnaaz made a face and shook her head. “Nahi, mujhe nahi sona.”
Rajender ji looked through the front mirror, trying to lighten the mood. “Chalo so jao, humari pari ne ankhen band ki ya nahi?”
Shehnaaz giggled, “Pari ne ankhen band kar li,” and she laid down on the seat, soon drifting to sleep.
Jasbeera ji sighed. “Us sham ko jo huva… uske baad kabhi socha nahi tha ke vapas ye sab…”
Rajender ji, looking at her, agreed. “Haan, Beera. Mujhe to yakin hi nahi ho raha ke Mohinder ne khud phone kar ke hume bulaya hai.”
Jasbeera ji smiled softly. “Wahe Guruji ki kripa se… sab phir se thik ho raha hai.”
Rajender ji nodded. “Par ek dar lag raha hai… Daarji bhi nahi hai… ye sab achanak…”
Jasbeera ji rested her hand on his, comforting him. “Achha sochiye ji… sab thik ho raha hai… yahi kafi hai.”
Rajender ji sighed deeply. “Shayad tum thik keh rahi ho… Shehbaaz ke baad Shehnaaz ne humari dil ki sari kadawahat khatm kar di.”
Jasbeera ji looked out the window, tears brimming in her eyes. Rajender ji held her hand tightly, sharing a silent moment of grief and hope.
—
Suddenly, Jasbeera ji felt a jolt as the car speed increased. “Aap kitni tej chala rahe hai… bachhee fir se uth jayegi.”
Rajender ji felt the unease too. “Pata nahi… jara ajeeb lag raha hai… break thik se…” He tried to apply the brake but found it unresponsive. “Ohhhhhhh shtttttttttttttttt… hey vahe guru ji….”
Jasbeera ji, shocked and scared, asked, “Kya huva ji…”
Rajender ji, sweating profusely, tried again and again. “Break nahi lag raha hai….”
Jasbeera ji, panic rising in her voice, urged, “Kya… koshish to kijiye… aise kaise…”
As the car sped uncontrollably, she got slammed against the door. “Aap speed kam karne ki koshish to kijiye….”
“Ouchhhhh…”
Rajender ji, trying hard to control the car, “Kuch nahi ho raha hai… sambhal ke…”
Jasbeera ji, more scared for their daughter, cried out, “Meri Sana…. kuchh kijiyena…”
Rajender ji, breaking down, “Ha me woh…”
Suddenly, a truck appeared in front of them and crashed into their car with a devastating impact.
_________________
#Hospital
Rajender ji, weak and struggling to stay conscious, asked, “Jasbeera kaisi hai…”
Mohinder, tears streaming down his face, responded, “Bhabhi nahi rahi bhai sahab….”
Rajender ji broke down completely, his heart shattering. “Kya… nahi… wo mujhe chhod ke…” he said, breathing hard.
Mohinder ji held his brother, trying to console him. “Sambhaliye khudko bhai sahab….”
Rajender ji, crying uncontrollably, asked, “Aur meri Sana….”
Mohinder ji, amidst his own tears, answered, “Wo thik hai… wahe Guruji ki meher hai ke usse jyada chhot nahi aayi… hath me ek fracture hai aur kharoche aayi hai…”
Rajender ji felt a deep helplessness. “Meri phool si bachhee… etni taklif me… meri Beera…”
Mohinder ji, blaming himself, said, “Ye sab meri vajah se huva hai… mujhe apko bulana hi nahi chahiye tha….”
Rajender ji, struggling to speak, said, “Jo likha hai… usse koi badal nahi sakta….Jasbeera…”
Mohinder ji, unable to see his brother in such pain, pleaded, “Plz bhai sah
ab… Shehnaaz ke khatir… aap ko sambhalna hoga khudko…”
Rajender ji’s breaths started to become shallow. “Mujse wada karo… agar mujhe kuchh ho jaye… toh tum meri beti ka khayal rakhoge… uska haqq usse doge…”
Mohinder ji, crying, promised, “Bhai sahab… aap ko kuchh nahi hoga… aap aise kyu bol rahe ho… aap ko jeena hai… Shehnaaz ke liye….”
Rajender ji’s eyes started to close. “Shehnaaz… Sana meri… usse rone mat…”
Mohinder ji, screaming for help, “Bhai shab… dr… dr…. bhai sahab.. kuch nahi hoga apko.”
The doctor and nurses rushed in, frantically trying to save Rajender ji. “Oh no.. he is sinking…”
A nurse looked at Mohinder ji, “Sir plz go out….”
Mohinder ji stepped out, tears streaming down his face.
After some time, the doctor came out, his expression grim. “We are sorry….”
Mohinder ji fell to the floor, devastated, crying uncontrollably.
_______________
# Delhi
Shehnaaz regained consciousness. “Mumma… mumma mujhe bhook lagi hai….”
Malini ji walked into the bedroom, “Beta, me abhi aap ke liye doodh lati hu.. aap aaram karo….”
Shehnaaz, looking at the unfamiliar face, asked, “Mumma kahan hai.. aap kaun ho….”
Malini ji, struggling to hold back tears, answered, “Beta, me apki chachi maa hu… ab aap ko dard to nahi ho raha na….”
Shehnaaz started to cry, “Mumma kahan hai…..”
Mohinder ji entered the room, his heart breaking at the sight of his niece’s tears.
Shehnaaz, sobbing, cried out, “Mujhe mumma papaji ke paas jana hai…..”
Mohinder ji, trying to comfort her, said, “Beta, me aap ka chachu hu.. aur aap ke mumma papaji ko bhagwan ne bahot jaruri kaam se bula liya hai…”
Shehnaaz, confused, asked, “Bhagwan ne… kya kaam hai…..”
Mohinder ji, “Ab woh to bhagwan ko pata… par bhagwan ji ka phone aaya tha bhai sahab ko ke jaldi se yahan aa jao.. mujhe bahot jaruri kaam hai…. to isliye mumma papaji chale gaye..”
Shehnaaz, feeling abandoned, asked, “To mujhe kyu nahi le gaye sath me.. wo mujhe kahin akele chhod kar nahi jate…”
Mohinder ji, trying to find the right words, explained, “Wo aap ko hum sab se milana tha na… esliye papa ne kaha ke me aapka dhyan rakhu tab tak wo bhagwan se milne ja rahe hai….”
Shehnaaz, tears streaming down her face, pleaded, “Mujhe bhi waha jana hai.. I promise me unhe tang nahi karungi…..”
Malini ji, unable to bear the sight, left the room in tears.
Shehnaaz’s cries grew louder. “Mujhe mumma papaji ke pass jana hai… mujhe unki yaad aa rahi hai… wo wapas kab aayenge…”
Mohinder ji, wiping his own tears, tried to console her. “Jab bhagwan ji ka kaam puara ho jayega.. tab…”
Shehnaaz, still not understanding, asked, “Aap ke paas bhagwan ji ka number hai.. mujhe mumma papaji se baat karni hai…”
Mohinder ji, “Mere pass to nahi hai… aap ke papa ko phone aaya tha na.. to unke paas hoga….”
He observed her closely, realizing how clever and talkative she was for her age. Her questions and thoughts were more advanced than those of a typical child.
Shehnaaz’s cries intensified. “Mujhe mumma papaji ke pass jana hai… mujhe unki yaad aa rahi hai… wo mujhe kabhi akele chhod kar nahi jate….”
Mohinder ji, taking her in his arms, tried to soothe her. “Aise rote nahi beta…. aap Baljeet aur Sameera se mile…”
But Shehnaaz, still crying, ran out of the room. “Mujhe kisi se nahi milna….”
—
Shehnaaz ran outside to the garden and sat down near a big tree, climbing onto a swing, still sobbing. That tree stood in the middle of the Shukla Mansion and Gill House, a serene spot often used for relaxation and fresh air.
Sitting on the swing, Shehnaaz cried her heart out, missing her parents more than ever. This was the first time they had ever left her alone, and the pain was unbearable.
“Why did they leave me alone?” she asked the tree, her only confidant at that moment.
“When will they be back… Mumma ko pata hai na, mujhe akele dar lagta hai… to fir…”
“If I get scared at night… will they be back by then?”
She asked these questions to the tree and the swing, finding some solace in their silent company. They allowed her to cry without any interruption, unlike the others who offered no answers about her parents’ whereabouts.
Still sobbing, Shehnaaz’s eyes fell on a boy playing football in the garden.
______________
#PRESENT
A single tear escaped Shehnaaz’s eye, bringing her abruptly back to the harsh reality she faced every day. The melancholic lyrics echoed in her mind, “Rahe aisi jinki… manzil hi nahi… dhundo mujhe ab me… rehti hu wohi… dil hai kahin… aur dhadkan hai kahin… sanse hai magar… kyu… zinda me nahi.” She quickly wiped the tear away before anyone could see, although it seemed almost impossible for someone in her position to hide anything.
No one dared to enter her cabin without permission, even in their worst nightmares. Messing with the formidable Shehnaaz Gill was simply not an option. She was known for her stern demeanor and unwavering control over her surroundings.
Shehnaaz returned to her phone, checking her emails with a practiced efficiency. She noticed three missed calls from Uttara and immediately called her back.
“Kahan thi yaar? Kab se try kar rahi hu tujhe,” Uttara’s voice was filled with annoyance.
Shehnaaz smiled, trying to diffuse her friend’s irritation, “Gussa mat karna. Meeting thi. Bata kya huva.”
With a serious tone, Uttara replied, “Shehnaaz… I actually…”
Shehnaaz rolled her eyes, anticipating the usual drama, “Don’t tell me you and Hameer fought again. God, grow up, guys.”
Uttara sighed, trying to convey the gravity of the situation, “No, silly. It’s important. Actually, Sidharth is back from London.”
Shehnaaz’s reaction was minimal, almost indifferent, “That’s good news. Finally, Dadi maa will be out of tension.”
Uttara was taken aback by her friend’s reaction. There were no questions, no sign of pain or concern in Shehnaaz’s voice, as if she didn’t care anymore.
“Sana, tu thik hai na?” Uttara asked, her voice filled with concern.
Shehnaaz smiled, trying to reassure her, “Haan, sweets. Tum log kab mil rahe ho? I want you all in Mumbai this weekend.”
Uttara grew more frustrated with Shehnaaz’s nonchalant attitude, “Will you listen to me? It’s important, Shehnaaz. You didn’t even ask how I know.”
Shehnaaz smiled dryly, “Tu bina bataye rahegi kya? Chal bata.”
Uttara made a face, “Actually, me and Hameer went to meet Dadi maa yesterday, and she told me that he just came back.”
Shehnaaz showed little interest, “Oh, okay. Aur Dadi maa kaisi hai? Dadi maa ki tabiyat thik hai na ab?”
Uttara sighed, “Haan, Dadi maa thik hai. We usually meet Dadi maa once a week.”
Shehnaaz smiled, “You better, or else I’ll kill you both with my bare hands.”
Uttara knew Shehnaaz was avoiding the topic, “Okay, get serious now.”
Shehnaaz giggled, trying to change the subject, “Tu aur serious? Okay, finally Hameer tujhe doctor ke pass le hi gaya.”
Uttara rolled her eyes, “Shehnaaz, sun na…”
Shehnaaz opened her laptop, signaling the end of the conversation, “Okay, so it’s done. You guys are coming this weekend.”
Uttara tried one last time, “Shehnaaz, Sidharth…”
Shehnaaz cut her off instantly, her tone turning cold, “Uttara, you are clever enough to understand that I’m trying to drop this topic for a long time. But since you’re not stopping, I’ll come to the point directly. If you don’t want me to stop talking to you either, then…”
Uttara widened her eyes, realizing she had pushed too far, “Okkk… okay, I got it. Gussa mat kar. I love you na.”
Shehnaaz softened, “I love you more. Okay, I have to go now. Work time.”
Uttara rolled her eyes, “Fine. I’ll catch you on the weekend.”
Shehnaaz hung up the call, feeling a mix of relief and frustration.
**IN DELHI**
Sidharth Shukla walked into the Gill Haveli with a sense of purpose. Mohinder and Malini were deep in a quiet conversation, which was abruptly interrupted by Sidharth’s determined footsteps. They stared at him as he made his way directly to Shehnaaz’s room, which was locked. This unsettled him.
“Why is Shehnaaz’s room locked? Where is she?” Sidharth thought to himself. “She must know I’ve come back. She didn’t even bother to come to meet me. She didn’t even miss me… dumbo.”
Despite his thoughts, Sidharth missed his Sana more than anything else. Determined to find out, he approached Mohinder.
“Hello, Uncle,” Sidharth greeted, attempting to mask his frustration with politeness.
Mohinder was taken aback. Sidharth Shukla, who rarely spoke to them, was now initiating conversation.
Mohinder forced a smile, but Sidharth could see through it, “Uncle, Shehnaaz kahan hai?”
Mohinder and Malini’s faces turned stern, filled with disdain.
Malini replied coldly, “Wo humare sath nahi rehti ab.”
With those few words, they walked away, leaving Sidharth puzzled and frustrated.
Sidharth gave a puzzled look and made his way back to Shukla Mansion. He was about to enter his room when his phone rang, interrupting his thoughts.
Sidharth sighed, “What is it?”
Simran, sensing his irritation, tried to lighten the mood, “Why is my man always in a bad mood?”
Sidharth forced a smile, “Have you called me to fight?”
Simran chuckled, “Of course not. I was missing you.”
Sidharth sighed again, his thoughts drifting back to Shehnaaz, “Miss you too. When are you coming?”
Simran spoke excitedly, “Soon, as soon as I get time. You know dad… he is always after me. Gosh.”
Distracted, Sidharth replied, “Alright, catch you soon then.”
Simran sighed with a hint of sadness, “Love you.”
Sidharth mumbled back, “Love you too,” and hung up.
Dadi maa, who was passing by, overheard the conversation. She was about to leave when Sidharth stopped her.
“Dadi maa, I’ve been here since yesterday, and you haven’t talked to me properly. I’m joining the office from Monday, so I won’t have much time,” Sidharth said, seeking some warmth and understanding.
Dadi maa gave him a faint smile, “Beta, you handled the London office superbly. Just take rest for some days.”
Sidharth looked at her, his frustration barely contained, “Dadi maa, I’m asking something, and you’re saying something else. By the way, Simran will be here soon.”
Dadi maa nodded and was about to leave when Sidharth stopped her again.
“Dadi maa, where is Shehnaaz? Her uncle said she doesn’t live with them anymore. Has she shifted here?” Sidharth asked, desperate for answers.
Dadi maa replied sadly, yet with a hint of sarcasm, “Woh yahan kyun shift hogi? Mujhe jyada pata nahi hai. Par shayad wo apne ghar laut gayi.”
Sidharth didn’t like it, “Ghar laut gayi matlab?” He was confused. An unknown fear gripped him.
Dadi maa’s taunt went unnoticed by him. “Apne ghar matlab… Dadi maa, kahan hai woh?” he needed to see her.
Dadi maa sighed, “Humne kaha na beta, hume bhi thik se pata nahi hai.”
Sidharth knew Dadi maa was lying. Upset and feeling helpless, he made his way to his room.
_________________
#MUMBAI
The evening air was tense as all the staff stood around Shehnaaz, shivering in fear. She stood in the center, her gaze icy and unyielding.
“I want the person to come out in the next 5 minutes,” Shehnaaz demanded, her voice sharp and authoritative.
Sasha, one of her assistants, hesitated, “Ma’am, are you sure… the news…”
Sasha’s words trailed off under Shehnaaz’s piercing glare.
Shehnaaz raised her voice, “I don’t have to tell anyone that I never take action until and unless I am sure enough.”
Sasha lowered her head, falling silent.
Shehnaaz continued, “The file was leaked to Mehta company yesterday. I want the person responsible for this.”
No one dared to come forward, fear evident in their eyes.
Shehnaaz’s patience wore thin, “5 minutes. If in the next 5 minutes, I don’t get the person, the whole staff will be replaced.”
The air grew thick with tension. Everyone knew Shehnaaz’s threats were never empty.
Finally, a man stepped forward, his head bowed in shame and fear. Shehnaaz’s eyes bore into him with a mix of fury and satisfaction.
He looked down, his voice trembling, “Ma’am, I will never repeat it again. Please, ma’am, one last chance.”
Shehnaaz laughed, a cold and chilling sound that sent shivers down everyone’s spine.
Shehnaaz’s voice dripped with sarcasm, “You’ve been working in this company for the past one and a half years, and you still don’t know that the word ‘second chance’ doesn’t exist in my dictionary? That’s another crime,” she laughed again, the sound echoing ominously.
“Tara,” Shehnaaz’s voice turned cold and serious, calling her assistant forward.
Tara handed Shehnaaz a
paper, her expression unreadable.
The man grew more desperate, “Please, ma’am, one chance.”
Shehnaaz spoke dryly, “You are fired, not just for leaking the information, but for asking for a second chance, knowing how much I hate those two words.”
The man’s face fell, realizing his mistake had cost him dearly.
As Shehnaaz turned to leave, she paused, looking back at him, “By the way, if I can find out that information was leaked, it’s obvious I knew who did it. Just wanted to hear it from your mouth. Now don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of rest because no company in all of Mumbai will dare to give you a job, as you know me now at least.”
Laughing, Shehnaaz made her way back to her cabin. Her fierce demeanor vanished as soon as she locked the door behind her, replaced by a mask of cold detachment. She stood there, remembering her hatred for the word “second chance.”
aisi bhi huyi thi… mujhse kya khata… tune jo mujhe di… jine ki sajah…
In her solitude, Shehnaaz let herself feel the weight of her past, the choices she had made, and the pain that lingered in the shadows of her heart.
_________________
**FLASHBACKS**
In the vast expanse of the playground, Sidharth was engrossed in his basketball, the rhythmic thud of the ball echoing in the quiet afternoon. His concentration was so intense that he didn’t notice the small girl sitting on the swing, tears streaming down her face. Shehnaaz, however, noticed him. She watched him intently, the way he focused on his game, seemingly oblivious to everything around him.
Gathering her courage, Shehnaaz, with tears still flowing, walked over to him and stood beside him. After some time, Sidharth finally noticed her. She stood there, a complete stranger, crying silently.
Sidharth found her presence odd. He didn’t know who she was or why she was standing next to him, crying. Breaking the silence, he asked, “Do I know you?”
Shehnaaz, through her sobs, asked, “Aap ke pass bhagwan ji ka number hai?”
Sidharth was baffled, unable to comprehend what she was asking. She looked at him with red, tear-stained eyes, waiting for an answer. Confused, Sidharth responded, “Are you mad?”
Shehnaaz started crying again, her sobs growing louder. Suddenly, Balraj appeared, furious. He snapped at Shehnaaz, “Oyye… tu yahan kya kar rahi hai?”
Shehnaaz knew him as Balraj Veerji, someone connected to her brother. This was the first time Balraj had ever spoken to her, and his harsh tone made her jump, crying even more loudly. Sidharth, irritated by their behavior, shouted, “Will you both please leave me alone?”
Balraj, even more angered, dragged Shehnaaz away from Sidharth. Sidharth watched them go, disinterested. He hated Balraj for his odd behavior, and the feeling was mutual. Sidharth resumed his basketball game as Balraj dragged Shehnaaz back to the house.
Mohinder noticed Balraj’s rough handling of Shehnaaz and intervened, “Oyye… pagal ho gaya hai… ye kya tarika hai…”
Balraj, still furious, retorted, “Is keh do ke… dobara us Sidharth se na mile…”
Mohinder pulled Shehnaaz away from him, warning, “Khabardar jo eske sath dobara aisa bartav kiya toh… 10 saal ka hai aur mera baap bana firta hai…”
Balraj glared furiously at Mohinder. Just then, Malini came running as she noticed Shehnaaz fainting. “Sanaaaaaaaa!” she screamed.
Shehnaaz, already unconscious, fell to the floor. Mohinder and Malini were terrified and immediately took her to the hospital.
After the check-up, the doctor came out of the room. “Dekhiye… shayad ye bahot tense hai… etni si umra me… etna tense… eske dimag par bhi asar ho sakta hai…”
Mohinder, very much tensed, explained, “Ji… darasal… esi hafte eske mummy papaji ka dehant ho gaya… aur ye etni chhoti hai ke hum ese kuch bata b nahi sakte… har waqt unke bare me puchhti rehti hai…”
The doctor sighed, “Ye toh bahot buri khabar hai… mujhe dar hai ke kahin eski dimagi halat kharab na hojaye…”
Mohinder, scared to hear that, pleaded, “Koi toh rasta hoga… esse thik karne ka…”
The doctor, unsure, advised, “Esse har waqt khush rakhne ki koshish kijiye… bachho se ghere rakhe taki esse apne parents ke bare me sochne ka mauka hi nah mile… jo pasand hai wo karne dijiye… aur haan… danatana bilkul mat… warna ye apne parents ko aur miss karegi… aur jaise jaise badi hogi… unke bare me aur puchhti jayegi…”
Mohinder listened patiently. The doctor took out a prescription paper. “Me kuch description de deta hu… par love is the only way to save her… she is just too small to handle this pain…”
Mohinder and Malini took Shehnaaz back home, their hearts heavy with worry.
**PRESENT**
Breaking through the wall of flashbacks, Shehnaaz made her way to her most usual place, where she had spent every evening for the past two years. She reached Bandstand, a famous hangout spot in Mumbai. The late evening made it lonely, just like her. She loved coming here at this time, ensuring no one disturbed her solitude.
She sat on a big stone, her usual spot, gazing at the endless water. The waves played at her feet, rolling here and there, drenching all the stones before retreating, only to return again. She loved this loneliness, this silent companionship of the sea. The strong winds hit her body, making her feel their existence, and she watched the water endlessly, without blinking, like a statue.
The water always gave her strength. In the last two years, it had been her only constant companion. This place, the cold winds, the waves, and the dead silence with only the sound of water kept her grounded. She never let anyone touch her heart in these past two years. She had built an unbreakable gate around herself, blocking everything away.
Her evenings were always decided. This place had a power that pulled her every evening. She laughed at those who were scared of losing things. Her thinking was if we are willing to lose everything wholeheartedly, we will gain something even better.
She wasn’t even disturbed by her own thoughts. She had banned her own emotions permanently. All she could feel was the coldness, the loneliness. She loved being alone and powerful. “In one way, it’s good to be alone. So, you will never be scared of anyone hurting you,” she often thought. That’s all she had learned from life. Life is best when lonely. Success rolls at your feet when you are alone. You are the god, being alone.
After spending most of her evening there, she finally made her way back to her mansion around 11:30 pm. She entered one of the biggest mansions in Mumbai, with antique bricks from Germany, containing everything one could want or not want. With twelve servants in their quarters, this powerful Shehnaaz Gill was alone in the whole mansion.
As Shehnaaz entered, her landline rang. She smiled. In the past two years, only one person had her landline number, and that was Dadi. Shehnaaz picked up the phone immediately. “Ji Dadi maa…”
Dadi smiled at her sweet voice, “Mera bachha kaisa hai… Dadi ki bilkul yaad nahi aati na…”
Shehnaaz made a baby face, “Aapka bachha bilkul thik hai… aur Dadi ko sabse jyada miss karta hai…”
Dadi sighed, “Beta aap apna khayal thik se nahi rakhte na… mujhe pata hai…”
Shehnaaz rolled her eyes, “Dadi maa… ye complain mujhe karni chahiye… last week aapne sirf 4 din hi medicines li…”
Dadi maa made a baby face, wondering how she always knew.
Shehnaaz melted, “Ye shakal mat banayiye… no escape now… agar fir se aisa huva… toh mujse bura koi na hoga…”
Dadi maa, “Waise bhi aap se shaitan koi nahi hai…”
Shehnaaz smiled, “Dadi maa… me shaitan nahi hu… aap ho…”
Dadi maa giggled, “Chup… apni Dadi ko shaitan bolti hai… badmash…”
Shehnaaz giggled back, feeling like ages had passed.
The same moment, Sidharth entered Dadi maa’s room, watching her giggle on the phone. “Dadi… aap has rahe ho aur wo bhi phone pe… jarur Sana ka phone hoga… mujhe dijiye…”
The moment Shehnaaz heard his voice, she straight away said bye to Dadi and disconnected the call. She didn’t like hearing her name from his mouth. How dare he take her name? No one takes Shehnaaz Gill’s name until she wants. No one. Her anger flared, her eyes bright with fury, as she banged into her room, shutting the door behind her.
As Dadi maa heard the bye from Shehnaaz, she too put the phone down. She smiled a bit, “Beta aap yahan… woh hum hamari ek saheli se baat kar rahe the…”
Sidharth’s face saddened, “Ohh… mujhe laga Shehnaaz hai…”
Dadi sighed, “Beta aap abhitak soye nahi…”
Sidharth went to Dadi maa and sat in front of her on his knees. “No, Dadi maa… jab se aaya hu… na kisi se mila hu… Shehnaaz bhi subah se nahi dikhi hai… mujhe laga tha woh mujhe airport par lene aayegi… par na wo wahan aayi… aur ab yahan bhi nahi… Shehnaaz hai kahan Dadi maa… koi mujhe bata kyu nahi raha… na mujhe koi cheeze milti hai… na hi samajh aa raha hai… ke kya kidhar rakhna hai… Shehnaaz kahan hai…”
He tried a lot but couldn’t hide the pain in his voice. He craved to see her, hug her, scold her maybe for this stupid behavior. Didn’t she miss him?
Dadi observed Sidharth carefully. His eyes were red, indicating he had cried. There were dark circles under his eyes, which worried her. He had grown more handsome in the past two years, but there was a sadness in his eyes that wasn’t there before, “Beta, aap 2 saal se London me reh rahe hai, fir bhi abhitak independent nahi ban paye. Har koi aapke liye tayyar nahi reh sakta. Aapko ye sab sikhna padega ab. Aur rahi Shehnaaz ki baat, wo is ghar ki servant nahi hai. You can tell any servant to adjust your stuff in your room.”
Sidharth didn’t like that. How could Dadi compare his Shehnaaz with a mere servant? she knew shehnaaz handled him completely.. What he didn’t like even more was that he wanted to meet Shehnaaz, talk to her, spend some good time with her and all his friends, but Shehnaaz was nowhere to be seen.
Sidharth sighed. “Dadi, aap mujhe batayengi ki Shehnaaz kahan hai? Wo apne ghar mein kyu nahi hai?” He was done with this hide and seek game..
Dadi got up and went to her closet. “Wo apne ghar mein hi hai, beta.”
Sidharth was confused. “No, Dadi. Uska room bhi locked hai, aur jab mene puchha toh unhone kaha ke Shehnaaz ab unke sath nahi rehti. What is this all? What am I missing here?”
Dadi laughed dryly. “Woh apne ghar hi hai, beta. Aap nahi samjhenge. You are missing nothing, beta, because you were never part of it.”
Sidharth got up, frustrated. “Dadi maa, what is this all? I am just not understanding anything. I admit, I fought with her, and from that day she hasn’t talked to me. I tried every way, but she didn’t. Why is she so angry with me? She never ever got angry with me. Aur jab huyi toh itni ke 2 saal se baat nahi ki. Aur ab wo yahan nahi hai. Wo hai kahan? Why is she hiding herself from me..?” his voice cracked in helplessness.
Dadi maa looked away. “Leave all this topic. Go to your bedroom. Kal baki friends se mil lena.”
Sidharth got really annoyed with Dadi maa’s evasiveness. He walked off in a huff. Dadi smiled sadly as a tear drop rolled out.
—
**Shehnaaz’s phone rang again.**
Shehnaaz picked it up after a few rings. “Ji, Dadi maa?”
Dadi maa smiled, missing her. “Aap khana khana fir bhool gayi. Jayiye abhi.”
Shehnaaz smiled. “Dadi, aap bhi na. Aapko phone se dikhata to nahi?”
Dadi maa giggled softly. “Haan, dikhta hai. Ab jayiye.”
Shehnaaz rolled her eyes. “Yes, boss.”
Dadi hung up. Shehnaaz lay on the bed, closing her eyes, reminding herself of the voice she heard a few minutes ago. Once again, unwillingly, her thoughts drifted back.
_________________
#FLASHBACK
One week had passed. Shehnaaz neither spoke to anybody nor cried, just slept for 24 hours. Mohinder and Malini were totally scared by her odd behavior. Shehnaaz banned everybody from her heart. She was just like a metal doll waiting for her parents to come. If anyone tried to talk to her, she would ask only one question, “Mumma papaji aagaye vapas?” As usual, the answer was no, and after that no, she would ban all further talk.
Two more weeks passed. Mohinder and Malini were very much scared by Shehnaaz’s odd behavior. What if something happened to her? What if she became mad? Unlimited thoughts started rolling in their minds. Finally, Mohinder thought about his last try.
He picked her up in his arms to make his way to the garden once again, only to find Dadi maa sitting on the swing, enjoying the blissful evening. Mohinder dropped Shehnaaz down, sitting beside Dadi while Shehnaaz stood at the place where Mohinder dropped her, watching nothing. Finally, Mohinder made her sit on another swing, thinking she might like to play.
Dadi maa noticed them. She found this beautiful small child too cute. Dadi went towards them instantly. “Arre Mohinder, badi pyari bachhee hai.”
Mohinder smiled sadly. “Ji, chachi ji, wo mere bade bhai sahab ki beti hai, Shehnaaz.”
Dadi maa smiled, looking at the cute girl. “Rejender aur Jasbeera ki beti…? bilkul copy hai Jasbeera ki… Shehnaaz, bada pyara naam hai. Par wo itni udas kyu lag rahi hai? Itne pyare chehre par aisi udasi?”
Mohinder started to roll tears. Dadi instantly held his hand. “Kya baat hai, beta?”
Mohinder spoke in a low voice, making sure Shehnaaz didn’t hear. “Chachi ji, darasal, kuch din pehle bhaisahab aur bhabhi ki car ka accident ho gaya. Dono nahi rahe. Bus Shehnaaz bachh gayi.”
Dadi was shocked to hear all that. Etni chhoti si bachhee, aur ye sab, how will she manage?
Mohinder was still crying. “Shehnaaz har waqt unke bare me puchhti rehti hai, aur humare paas koi jawab nahi hota. Dekhyena kaisi gumsome ho gayi hai.”
Dadi immediately consoled him. “Sambhalo khudko, beta. Ab jo hua usse badal to nahi sakte, par kyu na jo aanewala hai uske liye achi koshish ki jaye?”
Mohinder nodded sadly. “Par wo kuchh baat nahi karti. Doctor ne kaha hai ke aise hi chalta raha to uski dimagi halat bhi…”
Dadi shook her head. “Ye kaisi bate kar rahe ho? Itni masoom si bachhee.”
Mohinder sighed. “Chachi, aap usse baat karke dekhiye na. Shayad wo kuchh bole.”
Dadi maa immediately stood up and made her way to sit behind Shehnaaz on the swing. Shehnaaz didn’t notice Dadi maa for some time, but then did notice. Shehnaaz looked at her with all her hopes. Dadi looked at her with concentration, trying to read her face. Shehnaaz finally spoke. “Aap ke paas bhagwan ji ka number hai?”
Mohinder closed his eyes in pain. Again the same question. Dadi smiled. Shehnaaz’s hope raised with that smile on Dadi’s face. Shehnaaz held her hand softly. “Boliye na, mujhe mumma papaji se baat karni hai.”
Dadi maa took Shehnaaz into her lap. Shehnaaz still kept looking at her face with all her hopes. Dadi looked at her with a smile. “Aap janti hai me kaun hu?”
Shehnaaz nodded her head in no. Dadi smiled, kissing Shehnaaz’s cheek. Shehnaaz liked that. She felt that warmth she had been finding for the past three weeks, like her mumma had.
Dadi continued. “Me apki Dadi maa hu. Kaun hu?”
Shehnaaz said softly, “Dadi maa.”
Dadi put the words thoughtfully. “Me bhi bhagwan ji se milne gayi thi. Tab tumhare mumma papaji mujhe wahan mile.”
Shehnaaz smiled, excited hearing that. She literally stood on Dadi’s lap with her small, small legs. Dadi smiled with her kind face. Shehnaaz said, “Aap mumma papaji se mile the? Wo kab aayenge?”
Dadi hugged her lovingly. “Actually, na, wahan pe ek chhota sa baby tha, jiske mumma papaji nahi the, toh wo ro raha tha.”
Shehnaaz sighed. “Meri tarah.”
Dadi nodded. “Haan. Isliye toh bhagwan ji ne tumhare mumma papaji ko wahan bula liya. Kyunki tumhari mumma bahot pyari hai na.”
Shehnaaz smiled. “Mumma bahot pyari hai.”
Dadi smiled. “Tabhi toh. Baby ekdum shant ho gaya. Toh bhagwan ji ne kaha ke Shehnaaz toh ab badi ho gayi hai. Bahot samjhdar bhi hai.”
Shehnaaz smiled, hearing further. Dadi said further, “Esliye bhagwan ne mumma papaji ko kuchh din wahi rukne ke liye kaha aur mujhe yahan bhej diya, aapke paas, taki me apke sath milkar khoob masti kar saku.”
Saying this, Dadi maa started tickling Shehnaaz. Shehnaaz started to laugh continuously, not able to bear more tickles. Dadi kept tickling, and Shehnaaz kept laughing, rolling on her lap, trying to stop Dadi. Mohinder smiled wholeheartedly, feeling relieved, and left from their back to his house.
Dadi maa took Shehnaaz to Shukla mansion. Shehnaaz was holding Dadi maa’s hand with her tiny white fingers and went along. Shehnaaz was so happy, like before. She would be able to meet her parents soon. That made her happy.
As they stepped inside, Shehnaaz bumped into Sidharth, who was about to leave the mansion. Sidharth angrily shouted, “Can’t you watch?”
Shehnaaz made a baby face. Dadi got upset. “Sidharth, don’t shout. She is our guest.”
Sidharth looked at her again, realizing she was the same mad girl he had met some days before. Not again! Sidh
arth looked at Dadi maa. “Dadi, ye pagal hai. Aap ise kahan se laye ho?”
Shehnaaz’s eyes filled up with his rudeness. Dadi maa sighed, watching her teary eyes. Dadi lifted Shehnaaz up in her arms. Sidharth didn’t like that. His Dadi, and taking her side. He left at once in angry steps.
Shehnaaz hugged Dadi maa tight. Shehnaaz complained in her baby voice, “Me papaji ko iska naam bataungi, fir papaji ise datenge.”
Dadi maa smiled. “Arre papaji kyu? Me hu na. Hum iski barabar khabar lenge.”
Shehnaaz giggled, excited. “Sachhi?”
Dadi smiled back, kissing her cheek. “Muchhi.”
___________________
Author’s Note
Dear Readers,
Thank you for reading Sidharth and Shehnaaz’s story. I appreciate your support and would love to hear your thoughts.
In this chapter, we’ve seen Sidharth struggle with his feelings for Shehnaaz and his independence. We’ve also learned more about Shehnaaz’s painful past and her bond with Dadi maa. There have been misunderstandings, heartache, and moments of hope.
Your feedback is very important to us and will help us improve the story. Please share your thoughts and suggestions.
Thank you for being with us on this journey.
Also, stay tuned for Bhula Dunga, Mora Piya, Baarish and Thodasa pyar which will be starting soon along with the rest of the stories. There’s so much more in store, and I can’t wait for you to dive into these new adventures.
Don’t forget to follow me on Wattpad, Instagram and Youtube for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your support on these platforms helps keep the creativity flowing.
With love and gratitude,
Shalaka
Very emotional 🥹
🥹🥹
Amazing
Aww
Poor baachi yaar kitna sahna pada isko
Sayad sid se naaraj hai ssana par kyu
Sana kitni badi bussiness woo en baan gayi aur sid ko usko pata hi naahi aisa bhi kya dur hua
Nice part keep update soon
Love it all over again phir se paadh me maja aaya
Awesome
💖💖
Beautiful
💕💕💕
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
thnqqqqq
Nice
thank you so much
❤️
Very nice
Such a painful story
I’m not sure why but this weblog is loading incredibly slow for me. Is anyone else having this problem or is it a problem on my end? I’ll check back later on and see if the problem still exists.